Progressive Team Hawkes-trained gelding Rock is now unbeaten in three runs this preparation and he staged a very good effort in recording his first stakes success here. He was eased after being trapped deep from his wide barrier and remained near the tail of the field until nearing the home turn. He put in a strong run in the centre of the track and finished well to score a smart win. Articus raced in sixth pace but wide before moving up on straightening. He challenged at the 200m and then battled on well for second. Nettoyer raced beyond midfield on the rails and was then held up for clear running in the straight, eventually finishing nicely for third after gaining a late split. Kaonic was near the tail of the field to the home turn and made good late ground for (2.2 lengths) fourth. The second favourite Con Te Partiro was handily placed between runners but she was in restricted room all the way down the straight and her 10th should be overlooked.